Benzema Joins Rival Al-Hilal in Bumper Deal Amid Ronaldo's Frustration

• French striker Karim Benzema has moved from Al-Ittihad to Saudi league leaders Al-Hilal on an 18-month contract.
• Benzema, a 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, joined Al-Hilal on a free transfer after scoring eight goals in 14 league matches this season for Al-Ittihad.
• His departure from Al-Ittihad followed a fallout over a proposed contract extension, leading him to miss the last two games.
• Reports indicate Benzema rejected an offer from Saudi league sporting director Michael Emenalo, deeming it 'insulting'.
• The move has reportedly deepened Cristiano Ronaldo's frustration at Al-Nassr over perceived unequal management of PIF-backed clubs, especially compared to Al-Hilal.

Why It Matters: Karim Benzema's transfer to Al-Hilal intensifies the Saudi league title race and highlights Ronaldo's discontent.